Orthodontists are dental specialists that focus on the diagnosis and treatment of aligning bites and smiles. An orthodontist goes through an additional two to three years of specialized formal education beyond dental school. All of our orthodontists are certified specialists that focus their scope of practice and continuing education on the ability to get you smiling your best.

Your smile tells everyone how you feel about yourself. A beautiful, straight smile says you are confident and carry yourself with high self-esteem. Studies indicate that people who have had braces look better and feel better about themselves. We know that people who feel better about themselves are apt to be more successful at school, work and making friends. Braces are one of the things you can do for you and your children to ensure their over-all health throughout their lifetime.

Braces are not only for kids. Anyone with crooked or crowded teeth are candidates for braces. Approximately 20% of orthodontic patients are adults. A healthy bite is as important at age 60 as it is at age 16. Even though adults are no longer growing, they can also enjoy improvements that come from orthodontic treatment. Healthy teeth can be moved at any age.

For your convenience, we have general dentistry, specialty services and orthodontics, all in the same office. Our offices use the highest quality products including Damon brackets, Ormco brackets to choose your colors, Ormco Ice aesthetic ceramic brackets and Invisalign. With free consultations and best in value services, Courtesy Dental & Orthodontics makes braces a reality for anyone.

We know you want a dazzling smile. Go ahead and put your smile in our hands as you will benefit from digital technology and the latest orthodontic products. Consult one of our orthodontists for your health, your happiness and your smile.

TOP 10 QUESTIONS ABOUT TREATMENT

1. What will I learn from the initial evaluation?

Will the patient benefit from treatment, if so, how

What treatment is recommended

How long treatment will take to complete

How much will braces cost and what are my payment options

2. How much will treatment cost and what payment options are available?

Orthodontic fees depend on the complexity of the case. We explain the exact costs and financial options during the consultation at no cost. All payment options allow our patients to make monthly payments during their treatment and we provide a variety of options.

3. Will my insurance cover treatment?

We will review your insurance benefits at the consultation. Coverage of treatment depends on the terms of your insurance. If you have dental insurance that includes orthodontic benefits, check with the insurance company or your employer’s HR department to learn details of the coverage available to you. Some plans offer a discount on treatment and others make payments toward the overall costs.

4. At what age should my child see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontic recommends that children be evaluated by age 7. Early detection of orthodontic problems is important to work with the child’s growth and avoid more difficult treatment later.

5. How Often Will I Have Appointments?

Appointments are scheduled according to each patient’s needs but on average every 6 to 14 weeks. Our offices offer advanced technology systems like Damon to reduce the amount of appointments and treatment time necessary.

6. Are there foods I cannot eat while I have braces?

Yes, once you start treatment we will provide you with complete instructions. We ask you to avoid chew, crunchy and sticky items. Items such as ice, hard candy and caramel can cause damage to the braces. You can avoid extra repair appointments and reduce your time in braces by carefully following these instructions.

7. Why should I choose an orthodontic specialist over a dentist for treatment?

An orthodontist is a specialist in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Each specialist completes dental school before starting a two to three year program specializing in orthodontics. This program prepares the specialist to move teeth and guide facial development. The dentist who successfully completes that advanced specialty education programs may call themselves orthodontists.

8. How long will treatment take?

The patient may be in braces between 6 months to 30 months depending on dentition and the severity of the problem. Missed or rescheduled appointments and lack of cooperation can extend treatment time.

9. Is orthodontic care expensive?

When orthodontic treatment is implemented at the proper time, treatment is often less costly than the dental care required to treat the more serious problems that can develop years later. Financing is usually available and our office offers many payment programs that will meet your needs. In addition, many insurance plans now include orthodontics.

10. What types of dental braces do you offer and recommend for my orthodontic needs?

Dental braces come in several different styles. A skilled orthodontist can tell you the pros and cons of each type of treatment option for your unique dental circumstances. Our offices offer tradition metal braces, clear dental aligners (Invisalign®) and self-ligating braces such as Damon®.